Michigan Residents Eligible for Automatic $250 Energy Relief Starting January 1, 2026

Michigan $250 Energy Relief: Starting January 1, 2026, thousands of residents in Michigan will automatically get $250 energy assistance credits. This program is meant to help low-income households pay their heating bills during the cold winter months. The initiative is supported by Consumers Energy and the Michigan Department of Treasury. The credit will appear directly on qualifying customers’ accounts and they do not need to file taxes to get it.

Consumers Energy said in a public statement, “Michigan’s winter is coming, and Consumers Energy stands ready to assist customers who may need extra help paying their heating bills this season.” The one-time credit is aimed at households with incomes below 100% of the federal poverty line. Residents who want to check or update their eligibility can file a claim with the Department of Treasury. Officials also suggested calling 2-1-1 for more help, which connects people with nonprofit organizations providing utility assistance across Michigan.

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The CARE Program Offers Long-Term Support

Consumers Energy also runs the Consumers Affordable Resource for Energy (CARE) program. CARE helps low-income residents keep their utility payments manageable and prevents service shutoffs.

The program gives eligible customers a fixed monthly payment over 24 months and can help cover past-due balances if the monthly payments are maintained. To qualify, residents must have household incomes at or below 60% of the State Median Income and be Consumers Energy gas or electric customers tied to their primary home. Residents with past issues like theft, fraud or bankruptcy are usually ineligible unless resolved, but a third party can apply in some cases.

CARE enrollment works on a first come, first served basis. Participants may also get free in-home energy efficiency upgrades, which can lower future bills. Michigan also runs other support programs funded by the federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).

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Brian Lewis, Senior Executive Director of Customer Experience and Programs at Consumers Energy, said, “We are committed to ensuring these much-needed dollars are available to our customers most in need. By connecting our most vulnerable customers with the resources to stay on top of their energy bills, we are advancing energy equity for all Michiganders.”

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services also increased assistance through the State Emergency Relief fund. It offers one-time payments of up to $600 for overdue gas or electric bills at 150% of the federal poverty line and up to $900 for all-electric homes.